What to Do if Your Cat is Coughing: Causes and Treatment Guide

1. Understanding Why Your Cat is Coughing

Coughing in cats can be a sign of a variety of health issues. It's essential for pet owners to understand the different reasons why their cat might be coughing. While occasional coughing may not be cause for concern, persistent or severe coughing should not be ignored.

If you notice your cat coughing, it's important to first assess the situation. Is it a single cough, or are there repeated episodes? Does your cat seem to be in distress, or are they otherwise behaving normally? Observing the pattern and context of the coughing can provide valuable clues for determining the cause.

2. Common Causes of Coughing in Cats

There are several common causes of coughing in cats. Some of these are minor issues, while others may require more immediate attention. Here are some of the most frequent causes:

• Respiratory infections: Bacterial or viral infections are a common cause of coughing in cats. Conditions such as feline upper respiratory infections (URI) can cause coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
• Asthma: Feline asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, often leading to coughing and wheezing. If your cat's coughing is accompanied by labored breathing, asthma may be the cause.
• Heartworm disease: Though less common, heartworm disease can cause coughing in cats. Cats infected with heartworms may also experience vomiting, weight loss, and lethargy.
• Allergies: Cats can suffer from environmental allergies, which can cause coughing and sneezing. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and mold.
• Foreign objects: Cats that chew on small objects or eat something they shouldn’t may develop a cough due to an obstruction in their airways. This can be a serious situation if the object is stuck.
• Chronic bronchitis: Cats with chronic bronchitis may experience persistent coughing. This condition is often linked to ongoing irritation of the airways.

Understanding the potential causes of your cat's coughing is essential in choosing the right treatment and seeking veterinary care if necessary.

3. When to Worry About Your Cat’s Cough

While an occasional cough may not be alarming, there are signs that indicate you should seek veterinary care immediately. These include:

• Persistent coughing: If your cat’s cough lasts more than a few days or continues to worsen, it’s time to visit the vet.
• Difficulty breathing: If your cat seems to be struggling to breathe, this is a medical emergency. Rapid breathing or labored breathing accompanied by coughing should be addressed immediately.
• Other symptoms: If the coughing is accompanied by other signs of illness, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or vomiting, you should contact your veterinarian.
• Blood or mucus in the cough: If you notice blood or excessive mucus in your cat's cough, this could indicate a more serious health issue and requires immediate attention.

Remember, while not all coughing is dangerous, persistent or severe coughing should always be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any serious conditions.

4. How to Treat Your Cat’s Cough

The treatment for your cat’s cough will depend on the underlying cause. Your veterinarian will perform an examination, which may include diagnostic tests such as X-rays or blood tests, to determine the cause of the cough. Common treatments include:

• Medications: Depending on the cause, your vet may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections, steroids for inflammation, or bronchodilators for asthma.
• Flea and heartworm prevention: If your cat has heartworm disease, medications to treat and prevent further infection may be necessary.
• Environmental changes: For cats with allergies, reducing exposure to allergens or using air purifiers can help alleviate symptoms. Your vet may also recommend antihistamines or other treatments.
• Supportive care: In some cases, your cat may benefit from supportive care, including fluids, rest, and keeping them in a comfortable, warm environment.

Always follow your veterinarian’s recommendations and avoid self-diagnosing or treating your cat without professional guidance.

5. What to Do Next if Your Cat is Still Coughing

If your cat’s coughing persists despite treatment, it’s important to follow up with your veterinarian for further evaluation. Additional diagnostic tests may be necessary to rule out more serious conditions or adjust the treatment plan.

At Hidden Brook Veterinary, we offer comprehensive care and expert advice for all your pet’s health concerns, including respiratory issues. If your cat is coughing and you're unsure what to do next, don’t hesitate to contact us for professional guidance.

Visit Hidden Brook Veterinary to schedule an appointment and get your cat the care they need for a speedy recovery.